1 dies, one in ICU, 14 others hospitalized
AT least 16 people, of whom one died and the other one is still at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Iloilo Doctors Hospital after eating pochero cooked in a wake at Barangay Balibagan Oeste in the town of Sta. Barbara.
The victims were rushed to the hospital Sunday afternoon after coming down with symptoms of food poisoning. The beef stew was served during a late lunch.
The fatality was identified as Elizabeth Borsillo, 29. She fainted and turned black after eating pochero. Her husband rushed her to the hospital but did not make it.
The other victim who is still at the ICU is Philip Tubola. His wife and child were also among the victims. Tubola’s transfer from a district to the city hospital was recommended by the attending physicians.
The rest of the victims are already in stable conditions after receiving medical treatment for their illness at the Ramon Tabiana Memorial District Hospital.
The victims experienced vomiting and abdominal pain after eating beef stew in a wake in the said barangay. They suspect the salt used in the cooking caused the food poisoning. A toxic substance might be mistaken as salt during the cooking.
However, the Bureau of Food and Drugs Administration (BFDA) has yet to release its official report on the alleged food poisoning. Samples of beef stew and ingredients used in cooking were submitted to laboratory examination to determine what caused the illness that claimed the life of one victim and affected number of people.
Foodborne illness usually arises from improper handling, preparation or food storage. It can also be caused by pesticides or medicines in food and naturally toxic substances.
The symptoms begin several hours after consumption and depending on the agent involved. It can caused nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, gastroenteritis, fever or headache.
According to Balibagan Oeste Barangay Captain Capana, Borsillo was not able to vomit what she ate while the rest of the victims were able to throw up.
Capana said the stew was newly-cooked when served to the victims. The meat is also fresh as well as the vegetables. More victims could have been afflicted with the illness if it is the meat or the pechay used in cooking caused the poisoning.
Meanwhile, the municipal government of Sta. Barbara will extend help to the victims.
